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Fort River Bridge – The Strong House loop from Amherst

Routes

Running trails & routes

Fort River Bridge – The Strong House loop from Amherst

Moderate

4.9

(3100)

6,265

runners

Fort River Bridge – The Strong House loop from Amherst

00:51

7.97km

70m

Running

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: March 28, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

4.41 km

Fort River Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

This bridge along the Norwottuck Rail Trail crosses the Fort River and offers great views of the waterway.

Tip by

7.15 km

Downtown Amherst (South Pleasant Street)

Highlight (Segment) • Settlement

The historic downtown of Amherst is just north of Amherst College and south of UMass Amherst, and has been the heart of this area since the 18th century. Listed on …

Tip by

7.71 km

The Strong House

Highlight • Historical Site

The Strong House is one of Amherst's oldest surviving houses and currently houses the Amherst History Museum. Built in 1744, it survived a large fire that wiped out much of …

Tip by

7.97 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.26 km

2.05 km

579 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.68 km

2.55 km

956 m

579 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (100 m)

Lowest point (50 m)

Weather

Tuesday 9 June

31°C

12°C

-- %

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Description

If you're looking for a jogging route that blends natural beauty with a touch of local history in Amherst, the Fort River Bridge – The Strong House loop delivers. This moderate 4.9-mile (8.0 km) route packs in 230 feet (70 metres) of elevation gain over roughly 51 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a diverse and engaging run that offers more than just a workout.

What to expect on Fort River Bridge – The Strong House loop from Amherst

Expect a journey through diverse habitats, from the accessible crushed rock and boardwalk sections of the Fort River Trail, offering views of the Fort River and pollinator gardens, to potentially paved stretches connecting to historic landmarks. You'll pass the iconic 1880 Fort River Bridge, a historic metal truss bridge, and the 1744 Strong House, home to the Amherst Historical Society. While parts are easy, the overall loop is rated moderate, suggesting some sections will challenge your fitness, but the changing scenery and historical points make the effort worthwhile, especially for birdwatchers.

Planning your visit

While specific parking details for this user-defined loop aren't provided, the Fort River Trail segment, a likely part of your route, is known for its universal accessibility with wide paths and boardwalks. This makes it a welcoming option for many, though the overall loop is considered moderate. As with any run, check local weather conditions before heading out to ensure a pleasant experience.

Trail details